PHORMIUM 'Sundowner'

Description: Common name: New Zealand Flax 'Sundowner'. An evergreen, clump forming perennial with bronze-green leaves which are striped with red and pink towards the margins. The leaves are stronger and more upright than many and make this a great plant for winter interest and container growing. Flowers on spikes may be produced but the foliage is the main interest. Another of the newer introductions of the popular New Zealand Flax which works well in a sunny spot, dry conditions which is frost hardy and easy to maintain

Uses: Suitable for containers and also for coastal plantings. Excellent for contemporary or gravel gardens and for use as an architectural plant in a range of situations

Climate/Position: Full sun to partial shade

Height/Spread: Leaves up to 1.5 metres, flower spikes taller. Can take 2-5 years to reach maturity

Soil Requirements: Moist but well drained humus rich soil preferred

Pruning: Remove old leaves to tidy plant up especially in spring if some winter damage has occurred

Additional Interest: Phormiums originate in the coastal areas of New Zealand and was used traditionally by the Maori as an excellent fibre plant